Episode · The Rich Roll Podcast · 2026-06-18

Books mentioned on Fulfillment Maxxing: Why Offline Is The New Online & How to Feel Alive Again

5 books · Listen · Watch on YouTube

I think a lot of us are quietly struggling with some version of self-obsession right now. So today I want to talk about a different way to think about all of it: fulfillment maxxing.

Books mentioned, in the order they came up

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  1. Big Magic

    Elizabeth Gilbert · at 34:03

    Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert is a widely read exploration of creativity that encourages individuals to embrace inspiration while managing fear and self-doubt.

    Recommended
    “like the way Elizabeth Gilbert talks about it in her book Big Magic, where she just basically says, 'Yeah, you can come on this road trip that I'm going on right now, but you're going to have to sit in the back, you can't drive, you can't navigate. In fact, you can't even say a thing, cuz I'm in control.'”
    Where to get it
  2. Deep Work

    Cal Newport · at 42:49

    Deep Work by Cal Newport is a productivity guide that outlines rules for achieving focused success in a distracted world.

    Recommended
    “So, I'll close with a few recommendations for those that are interested in cultivating a little bit of a healthier relationship with your attention and I would start with the books of Cal Newport. He's got three great books that I would recommend: Deep Work, Digital Minimalism, and Slow Productivity. If you read nothing else, read those books.”
    Where to get it
  3. Slow Productivity

    Cal Newport · at 42:49

    Slow Productivity by Cal Newport is a modern guide that offers a practical framework for achieving meaningful accomplishments without succumbing to chronic burnout.

    Recommended
    “So, I'll close with a few recommendations for those that are interested in cultivating a little bit of a healthier relationship with your attention and I would start with the books of Cal Newport. He's got three great books that I would recommend: Deep Work, Digital Minimalism, and Slow Productivity. If you read nothing else, read those books.”
    Where to get it
  4. Digital Minimalism

    Cal Newport · at 42:49

    Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport is a practical guide advocating for a mindful and intentional approach to technology use to reclaim focus in a hyper-connected world.

    Recommended
    “So, I'll close with a few recommendations for those that are interested in cultivating a little bit of a healthier relationship with your attention and I would start with the books of Cal Newport. He's got three great books that I would recommend: Deep Work, Digital Minimalism, and Slow Productivity. If you read nothing else, read those books.”
    Where to get it
  5. Atomic Habits

    James Clear · at 43:49

    Atomic Habits by James Clear is a practical and widely acclaimed guide to building good habits, breaking bad ones, and mastering the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.

    Recommended
    “Another book I would recommend is James Clear's Atomic Habits. He's a master of that subject matter.”
    Where to get it